New Delhi [India], August 14 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday laid stress on remaining firm on constitutional ideals of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity, stating that citizens are on a mission to enable India reclaim its rightful position on the global stage.
In her address to the nation on the eve of 78th Independence Day, the President said that the Amrit Kaal wil be shaped by the youth and their energy and enthusiasm will take India to new heights.
“We are celebrating the 75th year of the Constitution. The journey of the newly independent nation was not without obstacles. Remaining firm on the Constitutional ideals of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity, we are on the mission to enable India to reclaim its rightful position on the global stage,” she said.
Referring to the Lok Sabha elections held earlier this year, she said the number of eligible voters stood at nearly 97 crore.
“This was a historic record, making it the largest electoral exercise humankind has ever witnessed. The Election Commission of India should be congratulated for the smooth and flawless conduct of such a gigantic event. I thank all officials and security personnel who braved the heat and helped electors. When such a large number of people exercise their franchise, it is a resounding vote for the idea of democracy. India’s successful conduct of elections strengthens democratic forces around the world,” she said. .
The President said that from 2021 to 2024, India has been among the fastest growing major economies, with an average growth rate of 8 percent annually. This has not only put more money in the hands of people, it has also drastically reduced the number of people living below the poverty line.
“It is a matter of pride for all that India has become the fifth largest economy in the world, and we are also poised to become one of the top three economies soon. This has been made possible only by tireless hard work of farmers and workers, by the farsightedness of planners and wealth-creators, and by the visionary leadership.”
She said considering the great potential of futuristic technology, the Government has vigorously promoted a range of sectors, such as semiconductors and Artificial Intelligence, while also creating an ideal ecosystem for startups which will propel their growth. It has made India an even more attractive investment destination. With greater transparency, the banking and financial sector has become much more efficient.
“All of these factors have set the stage for the next generation of economic reforms and economic growth that will catapult India among the developed nations. This rapid but equitable progress has given India a higher stature in global affairs. After the successful completion of its G-20 Presidency, India has consolidated its role as the voice of the Global South. India intends to use its influential position to expand the scope of world peace and prosperity,” she said.
Noting that the spirit of inclusion pervades every aspect of the country’s social life, she said affirmative action must be strengthened as an instrument of inclusion.
“I firmly believe that in a vast country like ours, tendencies that stoke discord based upon perceived social hierarchies have to be rejected. The term ‘justice’, taken in the broadest possible sense, includes a variety of social factors. I would like to stress two of them in particular, namely, gender justice and climate justice.”
She said women in society are considered not only equal, but even more than equal but have also suffered from traditional prejudices.
“I am glad to note that the Government has given equal importance to women’s welfare and women’s empowerment. The budget allocation for this purpose has more than tripled in the last decade. Their participation in the labour force has increased. The most heartening development on this front has been the significant improvement in the sex ratio at birth. A variety of special government schemes have also been designed keeping the women at the centre. Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam is aimed at ensuring real empowerment of women.”
Referring to the challenge of climate change, she said it is all the more challenging for developing nations to change their economic paradigm.
“We have already made more progress in that direction than expected. India is proud to be at the forefront of humankind’s battle to save the planet from the worst effects of global warming. I also urge you all to make small but effective changes in your lifestyle and contribute to the cause of dealing with the challenge of climate change,” the President said.
She also referred to adoption of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita from July this year and said the country has removed one more relic of the colonial era.
“The new code is oriented towards ensuring justice for the victims of crime instead of focusing on punishment alone. I see this change as a tribute to the freedom fighters.”
She said Amrit Kaal, the ongoing period of a quarter century leading to the centenary of our Independence, is going to be shaped by the youth of today.
“It is their energy and enthusiasm that will help the nation scale new heights. Cultivating the young minds and creating a new mindset that takes the best of the traditions and the contemporary knowledge is our priority. To this end, the National Education Policy, launched since 2020, has already started showing results.”
The President said to harness their talent, the Government has come up with initiatives to facilitate skilling, employment and other opportunities for them.
She said Prime Minister’s package of five schemes for employment and skilling will benefit 4.1 crore youth over five years.
“Under a new initiative of the Government, one crore youth will be doing internship in leading companies over five years. All this will be a foundational contribution towards building Viksit Bharat.”
The President also talked about India’s strides in science and technology.
“In India, we view science and technology as part of the quest for knowledge as well as instrument for humanitarian progress. Our achievements in the field of digital applications, for example, are being used as templates in other countries. In recent years, India has made unprecedented advances in space exploration. Along with you all, I also eagerly look forward to the launch of the Gaganyaan Mission next year, which will take a team of Indian astronauts into space aboard India’s first human spaceflight.”
She said the world of sports is another arena in which the country has made great progress in the last decade.
“The Government has rightly prioritised the development of sports infrastructure, and it is showing results.”
The President said the Indian contingent put up its best efforts in the recently concluded Paris Olympic Games.
“I appreciate the dedication and hard work of the players. They have inspired the youth. In cricket, India won the T-20 World Cup, to the great joy of a large number of fans. In chess, our prodigies have made the country proud. This is said to be the beginning of an Indian era in chess. In badminton, tennis and other sports, our youngsters are making a mark on the world stage. Their achievements have inspired the next generation too.”
She also extended her Independence Day greetings to the country’s brave jawans of Armed Forces “who guard our freedom, risking their lives”.
“I convey my greetings to the police and security personnel who keep vigil all across the country. I also extend my greetings to the members of the judiciary and the civil services, as well as the officials of our missions abroad. My greetings also to our diaspora: You are part of our family, making us proud with your achievements. You are great representatives of India’s culture and heritage,” she said. (ANI)
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